Richie Barnett: Bring on the game of the round

Sam Rapira. Photo / Getty Images

The Warriors will take a simple enough plan into tomorrow night's match against the Broncos.

Last year they flogged the Broncos 48-16 at Suncorp by using their big forwards to dominate around the ruck. With their Big Four props all in dominant form, they'll certainly look to repeat that formula.

The likes of Russell Packer and Sam Rapira will again target the Broncos' A and B defenders and look for the quick play-the-balls the team needs to launch their attack.

That said, it's a totally different Broncos side they are up against. The Broncos who were a bit green last year now have some experience, while some key heads are back from injury.

Justin Hodges being back adds a crucial dimension to the side. His combination with Sam Thaiday and Jharal Yow Yeh gives the Broncos one of the most potent right sides in the competition.

Like the Warriors, the Broncos have a well-balanced attack. Both have a great mix of youth and experience, and both have shown enough to suggest they can be title contenders.

The Broncos will have the extra motivation of Darren Lockyer's record-tying 349th match. They have been talking that down this week but privately they will be talking about how important that is.

The Warriors will be boosted by Manu Vatuvei's return to his best form. The Beast was outstanding last week against the Raiders. He's had an injury-plagued season but you could tell by the way he was carrying the ball he has just about come right.

His battle with Yow Yeh should be a classic. I'm picking the Warriors will look to isolate Yow Yeh and kick to his wing. When Manu is fully fit those kicks aren't even 50-50s - they're 60-40s to Manu.

One thing you have to say about the Warriors is that they haven't been tested by a top side recently. They will be tested tomorrow night. It shapes as the game of the round.

* Wasn't it great to hear Bluey McClennan say he was out to win the title next season? No settling in period, no building for the future, no two-year plan. Just a straight up "we're out to win it next year".

If anyone can do the job justice it's Bluey. League runs through his veins. You just know he'll do everything possible, put all of his energy and focus into trying to win the competition.